Doctors and medical professionals are urging everyone to have their flu shot before the start of the flu season. The Australian Medical Association (AMA) warned that people are in for a horror flu season if immunisation rates don't pick up.  The southern hemisphere bases its predictions for the flu season on what happened in the northern hemisphere.  “Countries like the United States had a very severe influenza season, with the Centre for Disease Control estimating at least 41 million illnesses, 540,000 hospitalisations, and 23,000 deaths from influenza during their season so far,“ Dr McMullen said. In the Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) and Far West LHD, influenza notifications have so far only slightly increased compared to the year prior.  In the WNSWLHD, there have been 323 influenza notifications, and in the Far West LHD, 20 notifications this year between January and March.   In the same timeframe last year there were 161 notifications in the WNSWLHD and in the Far West LHD 17. Experts say there are a number of factors that contribute to the sinking vaccination rates.  “We know there’s some vaccine fatigue out there following the pandemic, and some wildly misleading and damaging information on social media, and this is contributing to fewer people getting their shots,” AMA President Dr Danielle McMullen said.Last year, NSW had the second lowest vaccination rates for people aged 65 and older and for people aged 50 to 65, according to the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance (NCIRS).  "Anyone who has a compromised immune system is at risk of getting sick pretty quickly if they were to get influenza," Dr Martin said. A further challenge for rural areas is having enough qualified staff on hand to administer the shot, the President of the Australian College of Rural and Remote, Dr Rod Martin, said.  "The supply is there. You need to have the structures to be able to deliver the vaccines," Dr Martin said.  "In locations where there isn't a doctor, hopefully there is a vaccination-certified nurse."Since 2020 trained pharmacists have been allowed to administer influenza vaccines to patients aged ten and up. Dr Martin, who is based in Armidale, said personally, he has seen an increase in the number of people getting their flu shots at the pharmacy.  "Having that co-ordination is important. There's some structures there for it but it's not complete yet."  ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin. Photo: ACRRM He says he best time for elderly people and people with a weak immune system to get the flu shot is in April and May.  Young people on the other hand can get vaccinated throughout the year.  "People with a normal immune system and lung function can get it pretty much any time because your body is going to do a good job of remembering the vaccine," Dr Martin said. Dr Martin reminded everyone that getting the Covid vaccine is still important too.  "Keep on getting your Covid vaccines as well. There's a new Covid strain that came out probably six weeks ago. We can give Covid and flu shots at the same time."

This week the Coonamble Times newspaper celebrates 140 years of publishing as an independent, locally owned small business. The people of Coonamble are proud and rightly so. Established in 1885, in an era when newspapers were the primary form of public communication, the local newspaper was essential to the functioning of households, businesses and government alike. At the time there were around 150 newspapers in NSW country towns and by 1891 a newspaper census named 191 papers in 121 towns.  It’s impossible to fathom the changes in technology over 140 years and how creating a newspaper in 1885 could so differ to 2025, yet the challenges remain fundamentally the same, with technology at the top of the list. The introduction of radio in the 1920’s, television and computers in the 1970’s, the internet in 1983, followed by social media 1997 and now Artificial Intelligence, have been battles local newspapers have had to both compete and collaborate with to stay alive. With many small country newspapers absorbed into distantly-managed big companies and digital news outlets, the Coonamble Times community has helped it stay independent and locally-owned. Coonamble Times Editor Lee O’Connor says it is "humbling and a little bit sobering, to reflect on the trials and triumphs of 140 years."Perhaps the first Coonamble Times office (late 1800s). IMAGE courtesy Ray Green with thanks to Sedg White Photography. “Irish Immigrant John Richardson McWilliam was the founder of Coonamble Times, who despite living in Mudgee, where he worked on the paper there, had business in Coonamble and saw an opportunity to start his own. There was already a newspaper in operation, The Coonamble Independent, but McWilliam forged ahead. Competition was intense, many towns had two or more rival papers at that time.  In the 1930s, Gilgandra-based H.E.O Campbell purchased the two local newspapers and combined them into the one, naming it the Coonamble Times. “From then the baton has passed through the hands of a vast multitude of people - owners, managers, editors, journalists, print crews, paper boys, bookkeepers, sales and office staff - who have carried on as custodians of the local news across the decades,” said Mrs O’Connor. In 2017 Mrs O’Connor purchased the publication and started to learn the ropes of running a newspaper.Anne Mackay (bookkeeper), Lee O'Connor (Managing Editor), Angie O'Connor (Design & Production), Neil Ruttley (Admin & Sales), Sue Hargans (Volunteer Proofreader), Lily Plass and River McCrossen (Journalists). IMAGE: Coonamble Times “With the help of clever and passionate home-grown and imported 'locals' we have tackled the latest in the newspaper's technology challenges and now publish a print and an online digital edition each week on our own website and use social media to help lead people to our news. “The tools of trade may be different, but the focus remains the same - delivering real local news. “Our essential partners in this ongoing endeavour continue to be the businesses and groups who pay to advertise, the volunteers who contribute their talents through words and pictures, and the present and past residents who buy and read the paper. “The Coonamble Times belongs to the people of Coonamble and surrounds and for that we are very proud,” said Mrs O’Connor.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged following an investigation into a break-in at a Bourke motel on 22 February.  Around 4:50am, officers attached to the Central North Police District were called to a motel on Anson Street in Bourke following reports of a break-in.  Police were told a group of around four unknown people allegedly armed with knives forced entry into staff accommodation and threatened the occupant, a 24-year-old man, before stealing cash, bank cards, and mobile phones. The group then broke into a second motel room and threatened the occupant, a 52-year-old man,  with long knives, before fleeing with cash, bank cards, and a mobile phone. The older man suffered a minor cut to his neck, with no other injuries reported. The group then crashed through a locked gate in an allegedly stolen white Holden sedan before driving off.  Specialist officers examined the crime scene.  Around 11am that same day, officers located the Holden on Lewana Place in Orange.  The vehicle had front-end damage to the windscreen and hood. It was seized for forensic examination.  Police believe the break-and-enter at the Bourke motel is linked to another break-and-enter incident earlier that day at a caravan park on Becker Street in Bourke.  Following inquiries by detectives from Central North Police District police arrested a 15-year-old boy in Short Street, Bourke around 9am on Tuesday 1 April.  The boy was taken to Bourke Police Station and charged with five offences, including aggravated breaking and entering, committing a serious indictable offence while armed, taking and driving a conveyance without the owner's consent, committing a Section 112 offence and disseminating (post and boast), stealing, and being carried in a conveyance taken without the owner's consent.  He was refused bail and will appear before children's court today, 2 April.  Investigations into the break-and-enter at the Bourke motel continue. 

The 2025 Western NSW Business Awards finalists have been announced and there are three finalists from Western Plains towns in the running.  Eden Coughlan, Momentum Dance Studios in Cobar has been nominated for Outstanding Young Business Leader.Flying with Grace at Narromine will be contesting Outstanding New Business.Swanny's Foods based at Coonamble are again among the top contenders for Excellence in Small Business.The awards are co-ordinated by Business NSW (formerly NSW Business Chamber) and seek to showcase the best of the best across 21 categories.Top performers from Lithgow to Broken Hill are recognised for their innovation, resilience and dedication.Eden Coughlan - Momentum Dance Studios Ms Coughlan said that the news of becoming a finalist at the Western NSW Business Awards was "very unexpected and exciting". "It’s quite a diverse group, so it was really good to see the different finalists and to be alongside them." The 29-year-old started teaching dance at the age of 14 in Cobar and opened up her first studio in 2017 in Cobar.  Since then, she has expanded her business to Nyngan and Bourke as well where she and nine other staff members teach around 200 students ages two to 18.  Students can learn various dance styles including, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Ballet, Circus, Acrobatics, and Contemporary.  It is important to foster children's creativity, especially in the bush where there are few opportunities for artistic outlets, Ms Coughlan said. "The children gain confidence and build leadership and teamwork skills." Although the majority of Ms Coughlan's students are girls, she has a special class only for boys where they can explore their creative side in their own space.  "Maybe they don't want to dance with the girls because it's not the cool thing to do, so we run a boy's class which gives them a bit of a safer safe," Ms Coughlan said. Ms Coughlan started her first dancing studio in her early twenties. Photo: supplied.  In the future, Ms Coughlan hopes to expand to other areas as long as Momentum Dance Studio has the capacity and there is a demand for dance lessons.  "It's definitely on the cards but we only want to go as far as we can physically reach and build relationships." Flying with Grace  Grace Walker from Narromine is excited to see her dream of sharing her passion for flying blossom. She opened up her flying school in Narromine in October 2023 after rediscovering a her love for aviation.  Her interest in aviation began as a teenager but she first started flying herself in 2020.  The aircraft she teaches her students with is a Tecnam P96 Golf.  "I found a nice market out this way because there are not many recreational flight schools."  "I feel so at peace when I fly. It's where I was always meant to be."  Now she teaches students from Narromine and all over the country, including Queensland, Canberra, and Sydney. A refreshing sight Ms Walker says is the number of women who signed up for the classes.  Around a quarter of her students are women.  "It's great to have all the women here because usually the ratio is quite low. "Many of the people I meet say, 'I'm so glad you're here. I've always wanted to fly but life hasn't given me the chance yet and now I have it.'" Seeing her students achieve new milestones is a highlight every time for Ms Walker.  "I cry nearly every time watching someone achieve something. I think it is absolutely priceless."  The award has brought Ms Walker much joy.  "I'm both nervous and excited. I'm really grateful for all the recognition and proud of what I've accomplished so far." Swanny's Foods  Hospitality businesses in Western NSW are probably already familiar with Swanny's Foods.  The Swansborough family bought the company, formerly known as Belmac, in 1992 and has since grown it to the reliable wholesaler it is known today.  Swanny's Foods now services Armatree, Baradine, Collie, Coonabarabran, Lightning Ridge, and Walgett. "We're really excited," Manager Rachael Swansborough said. The company was a finalist in the 2024 awards.  "I didn't think we would make it again considering the other businesses we were up against when we went last time."  Swanny's Foods has won several local business awards. Rachael Swansborough holding the most recent Coonamble Business Award. Swanny's Foods had several big milestones last year including opening up a new shop and extending the depot with another freezer.  The new shop front offers customers a safe location to do their shopping away from the hustle and bustle of the depot.  Both local customers and people travelling through town stop by the store regularly to grab a treat.  "Considering that many other candidates are from bigger places, it's exciting that Coonamble is recognised," Ms Swansborough said. Finalists from across the west will converge on Dubbo for the Gala Event on Friday 16 May.

Dubbo based, Nyngan bred racehorse trainer Brett Robb had full confidence in his 2-year-old Comogin heading into the iconic Wellington Boot the richest NSW country gallop for youngsters on Monday.The punters didn’t think that way Sydney’s invaders including Bjorn Baker had 2 smart babies chasing the $200,000 first prize Invincible Phantom sent out (2.15 favourite) in the 1100m dash.But at barrier rise Comogin ($9.50) had the gate speed to storm to the front and wasn’t for catching winning by more than 2 lengths, going from barrier to post. Bjorn Baker’s second stable chance Alabama Charm finished second with Scone’s Bullant third.Brett Robb with Owners of Comogin winner of the 2025 Wellington Boot - Image courtesy RacingPhotography.com.au.The son of legendary Nyngan horse man Rodney Robb had trained his horse to be ready.‘’We freshened him up and he was feeling ready, and Clayton rode a great race on him.’’Jockey Clayton Gallagher said the well-bred two-year-old was full of running. ‘’He felt good out of the stalls and on the turn he just fired.’’Clayton Gallagher bringing Comogin home in the 2025 Wellington Boot - Image courtesy RacingPhotography.com.auIt’s a big week for Brett Robb his 5-year-old gelding Gallant Star is favourite for the $1m Country Championship Final 1400m at Randwick after beating his rivals in the Coonamble qualifier and his fast front running style has captured the eyes of Western Plains sports fans and racing experts.‘’It is going to be a big week can’t wait for it.’’ Robb said.Nyngan and communities across the bush will be cheering for the Robb family for another big racing success.  

Police are appealing for information following the death of a 17-year-old boy involved in a police pursuit in Bourke in February.  The incident began on Thursday, 27 February, around 11:15pm when officers attached to the Orana Mid-Western Police District responded to reports of a break-and-enter at a service station on Burroway Road in Narromine.   When police arrived they were four teenagers had already fled the scene in an allegedly stolen Toyota FJ Landcruiser Station Wagen with NSW registration FBS88R.  Around 12:08am on Friday, 28 February, the Toyota was located 15 kilometres east of Nyngan on the Mitchell Highway, where police initiated a pursuit, however, it was terminated a short time later.  Police reinitiated the pursuit in Coolabah around 12:45am.  Officers deployed two sets of road spikes on Mitchell Highway in Coolabah and Sydney Road, Bourke.  The allegedly stolen vehicle continued through the township of Bourke before it crashed and rolled on Weir Road around 1:30am.  Police said they immediately rendered assistance to the four occupants of the car.  A 17-year-old boy, who is believed to have been an occupant in the car, died at the scene.  Three other boys, aged 13, 14, and 16, were treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene before they were taken to Bourke Hospital.  The 14-year-old was airlifted to Randwick Children's Hospital in serious condition and the two other boys were taken to Dubbo Hospital for further treatment.  All teens have since been discharged from hospital.  The Crash Investigation Unit attended the crime scene for investigation. A critical investigation team from Oxley Police District was also deployed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Police have released CCTV vision of the allegedly stolen vehicle.  Officers are looking for CCTV, dashcam vision, or information about the driver of the vehicle at the time of the incident, and are urging anyone with information to contact Bourke Police Station.  The investigation will be subject to independent review. 

Starting April 1, the Macquarie Home Stay will be offer guest concierge services for those staying at the accommodation thanks to the generosity of Dubbo City Toyota and volunteer drivers.With more and more Western area people requiring medical care in Dubbo, this service will provide invaluable assistance during a time of difficulty for many.Macquarie Home Stay is the patient and partner/carer accommodation facility for patients from outlying areas who travel to Dubbo for medical care.It is funded by grants and reliant on donations and fundraising.The new service will assist patients to get around Dubbo by collecting and pickups from bus and train station and Dubbo airport, as well as assisting patients with appointment transfer, getting groceries or picking up scripts from the pharmacy.Andrew Single Macquarie Home Stay President of MHS Board - Image courtesy MHS.Andrew Single Macquarie Home Stay President of MHS Board says the new car is a wonderful thing for MHS.“We knew there was a gap, we had people coming to town on public transport then having to pay a cab to get to MHS, yet another impediment for people that need help to get help.“One of our Directors Allister Rodgers took himself to Dubbo City Toyota and genuinely asked ‘could we have a car’ and they said sure. "Not only that, they are paying the registration and insurance and paying for the services also."One of Macquarie Home Stay Directors Allister Rodgers who approached Dubbo City Toyota for a car - Image courtesy Macquarie Home Stay.“We are in the process of getting volunteer drivers and then we can take people wherever they need to go. Its another piece of the puzzle put together to help the people of the Western area,” Mr Single said.Ben Thompson, Dealer Principal and Managing Director of Dubbo City Toyota - image courtesy Dubbo City Toyota.Ben Thompson, Dealer Principal and Managing Director of Dubbo City Toyota says Macquarie Home Stay is a vital service and the company were only too happy to support such a wonderful cause.“Macquarie Home Stay is something our business is passionate about being involved in. It’s incredible for the community and they need help, and it is something we feel like we can contribute to, so to give them a vehicle just makes sense.“I believe it is our duty to play a role in supporting the community where we can, and we are passionate about this project."Many of the people who support our business have need to use Macquarie Home Stay or assist in the running of the organisation, so it makes sense to us to support them as well."MHS is a great organisation that helps the greater Central and Western areas, and we are proud to be a part of it,” said Mr Thompson.Macquarie Home Stay Dubbo - Image courtesy MHS.Upon announcement of the new service people took to online expressing what a great initiative this will be.Shayne wrote, “Macquarie Home Stay you just get better and better. This would mean I could come alone to hospital visits and leave my husband to look after things at home rather than arranging for someone to farm sit for us.”“You guys go from strength to strength. Our region is lucky to have you,” said Michelle.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is breathing new life into its Discovery Program with a full roster of rangers on board.  The first tour will be the Explore the Dark Sky tour on Friday 4 April from the Warrumbungle Visitor Centre near Coonabarabran. "We hope that visitors see some animals, and maybe learn a thing or two about the trees, ecology, or geography, depending on the park. If there's one takeaway we want it to be education and encouraging people to explore the parks more,"Northern Inland Branch Visitor Centre Supervisor Alex Bain said. "We now have eight tour guides which is very exciting because for the customers it means that every time they come tour with us, they're going to have a slightly different experience," Ms Bain said.  The Discovery Program features nine tours in the Pilliga and Warrumbungle National Park, one of which will be released in the coming days. There is also a special 50th-anniversary event for the Werrikimbe National Park. "We have some new tours but also some revamped old ones," Ms Bain said.  Several of the tours run in the Warrumbungle National Park and Pilliga Nature Reserve such as the Pilliga Sculptures and Cave Convoy Tour, Explore the Dark Sky, and Walk on the Wild Side at the Warrumbungles.  For the first time, an Indigenous ranger is also part of the Discovery Program giving visitors a unique understanding of the cultural significance of the National Parks.  The Tara Cultural tour will be led by a local Aboriginal Discovery ranger. Photo: NPWS The Discovery Program is open to people of all ages who are able to walk the distance.  "People don't need to be experienced bushwalkers. We purposefully chose walks that are not too difficult because we want as many people as possible to join," Ms Bain said.  Visitors are encouraged to bring essentials such as water, sunscreen, bug spray, and good shoes.   The proceeds from the tours go towards covering costs and maintaining the national parks. "Our tours aren't for profit. They are for education," said Ms Bain. "There's been a lot of money, time, and effort put into getting people on Park.  "There's something for everybody, whether you're local or a visitor. There's going to be lots of tours and lots of experiences to share and we hope you come out and do." More information on the walking tours can be found here.

Gilgandra got to see a part of history on wheels when the Dubbo Antique Automobile Club (DAAC) hosted the annual Country of Heritage Motor Club's (CHMC) rally on Sunday 30 March.  Around 100 entrants from antique car enthusiasts across the state including Narrabri, Port Macquarie, Newcastle, and the South Coast joined in on the ride. "We chose our route due to the amazing support from the Gilgandra Shire and community," Rally Director Matt Lack said. Antique cars have to be at least 30 years old and to be considered vintage a car has to be 94 years or older.  Around 20 cars that are part of the DAAC are considered vintage.  Antique car enthusiasts work hard to keep cars in tip top shape. Photo: River McCrossen. Each year a different car club hosts a rally in regional towns.  The rally started out in Dubbo before they headed to Mendooran for morning tea and Gilgandra for lunch.  Each year the CHMC organises an annual drive through different towns across the country and this year it was DAAC's turn.  Some of the oldest models among the ranks include Model T Fords between 1911 and 1915.   With 100 antique cars, the road can sometimes be a bumpy one.  "There are always mechanical issues that arise. Part of owning an old car is that things do break, so that's part of the challenge, or I guess enjoyment, of keeping the cars on the road," Mr Lack said. "It's part of being in a good community with the car club that people stop and help." Mr Lack's passion for antique cars began in his childhood.  "My father was always in the shed tinkering with cars. I've grown up in the car movement and got to meet the wonderful people that are involved in the hobby."  Mr Lack drives a 1929 Reo that he first rode in as a child in Tasmania. Twenty years ago, he had the opportunity to buy the car from the man who restored it.  Now, Mr Lack is passing on his passion for cars to his children.  "They've got good knowledge and enjoy the people and places they get to visit. That's what encourages them.  "They love travelling in the old car because people always wave and come to talk to us.  "They notice the big difference to travelling in a modern car where no one blinks twice when you're going past," Mr Lack said.  At the end of the day, the DAAC headed back to Dubbo for their presentation at the Dubbo Showground.  The next annual CHMC rally will be held around the same time next year with the location yet to be announced.

Member for Barwon Roy Butler is calling all young Indigenous people in the western area aged between 18-25 years to apply to take part in a new Young Aboriginal Leaders Program.It's a step out of the comfort zone, but it could be the start of better things for all our communities.A tailored initiative, brought to life by members of the Legislative Council as part of their Bicentenary celebrations, is designed to empower and inspire young leaders across the state.This first-of-its-kind residential leadership program to be held in June 2025 will provide a culturally grounded experience focused on leadership, networking, and community impact. “We are looking for young Indigenous people who are emerging leaders in their communities to take part in the Young Aboriginal Leaders Program at NSW Parliament,” said Mr Butler.“This will be a three-day fully funded residential program, and will run from June 17 to 20."It is open to young leaders aged 18 to 25 to provide them with an experience focused on leadership, networking, and community impact, as well as providing participants with the opportunity to learn about parliamentary processes."During the program participants will:Develop leadership and communication skills.Learn about parliamentary processes.Engage with Aboriginal leaders and real-world case studies.Deliver a speech in the Legislative Council Chamber at Parliament House.Joe Stewart Parliament of NSW Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer - Image courtesy NSW Parliament. Joe Stewart Parliament of NSW Senior Aboriginal Liaison Officer says the program is designed to equip the Aboriginal leaders of the next generation with the skills, confidence and networks they need to promote positive change in their communities.“If you know someone with leadership potential, encourage them to apply, this immersive experience could be life-changing,” he said.President of the NSW Legislative Council, the Hon. Ben Franklin said the program is more than a leadership conference.“It’s about connection, empowerment, and equipping young Aboriginal people with the tools to drive change."We want young leaders from across NSW to be part of something truly special," said Mr Franklin.Fully funded the selected participants will have all travel, accommodation, and meals covered – ensuring young leaders from every part of NSW can participate.​The interior of the Legislative Assembly Chamber in the Parliament of NSW - Image NSW Parliament. Applications for the program, which is part of the Legislative Council's bicentenary celebrations, are open until 4 April 2025. For more information, email [email protected] can contact the Aboriginal Engagement team with any questions or if they require assistance to complete this form.

A paddock in Cobar was the venue for ‘Palettes/Palates in the Paddock’ Saturday evening 22 March, as local artist Seigrid Peters or ‘Pink Galah’ as she is known, hosted an event with 120 people painting, sipping, eating and having the time of their life under a star lit sky.According to Mrs Peters, who shares her love of art across the western area, it’s a unique event all about connection, stepping outside comfort zones, embracing creativity and celebrating community, all the while reminding attendees why country life is so special.“Palettes in the Paddock 2025 was nothing short of incredible,” said Mrs Peters. “Our second year running this event, and it couldn’t have gone more seamlessly.”Organiser Sigrid Peters and caterer Hayley Prince at the recent event in Cobar - Image courtesy Em Wollen Creative “120 guests, an unforgettable art experience under the open sky, and a stunning three course meal by Hayley Prince at Classique catering."The atmosphere was electric, with the most epic group of people who came together to celebrate creativity, connection, and country life.“It’s officially an annual event now, and we can’t wait to do it all again in 2026,” said Mrs Peters.Bridget Brookman pictured with Nicole Creed - Image courtesy Nicole Creed.Bridget Brookman attended the event and said it had so many moments that stood out to make it truly memorable.“From the moment people gathered at the Golf Club awaiting buses to depart, you could already feel the buzz in the air."Sparkles, boots and people who hadn’t seen each other for a while were ready for a night out under the stars," said Mrs Brookman.“An archway with streamers and flowers greeted us as we exited the bus, with champagne on arrival, gorgeously decorated long tables, fairy lights, music and painted back drops had us all in awe.“We thoroughly immersed ourselves in the art, painting beautiful cowgirls’ hats and seeing 120 hats come to life.All guests painted a cow girl hat in between food courses for the night - Image courtesy Em Wollen Creative.“Classique Catering food was nothing but sensational and everyone was blown away with the local talent of Hayley Prince and her helpers.“The night was everything you’d expect a country event to look like. Pure glam and artistic expression all under the outback skies, absolute magic,” said Mrs Brookman.“Our second year of running the event this year and we sold out tickets in 30 minutes, the Cobar community has really jumped on board with people from 18 – 85 coming along and we couldn’t be prouder,” said organiser Seigrid Peters.120 people celebrating a night under the sky - Image courtesy Em Wollen Creative.“We haven’t heard of an event like this happening anywhere else, so it is unique to Cobar and now on their annual list of events to attend.“What could be better than combining a celebration of art and creativity with gourmet food in the bush. Thank you so much to our Cobar community for supporting us, we really appreciate you all,” said Mrs Peters.

Prehabilitation care for cancer patients, which takes place prior to surgery, aims to increase survival and improve quality of life, and it may soon be available in regional areas, possibly including the Western Plains.Dr Jennifer Mackney, is a John Hunter Hospital-based clinical specialist physiotherapist and researcher with the University of Newcastle and HMRI and has been awarded an $800,000 Cancer Institute NSW Accelerated Research Implementation Grant.The effectiveness and implementation study will test the upscaling of the Newcastle prehabilitation model of care in five regional communities, ensuring that patients in rural areas have better access to critical support services before undergoing cancer-related surgeries.When Western Plains App spoke to the Media and Communications Specialist at the University of Newcastle, she was unable to confirm where the five regional communities would be as discussions were still underway.In Australia each year, it is estimated that 165,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer, with around 132,000 requiring surgeries—often multiple times.Many of these patients are located in regional areas where access to specialised care can be limited.Prehabilitation is an intervention program designed to help people prepare for cancer treatment by improving their physical and mental health.It includes structured exercise, nutrition optimisation, and psychological support before surgery, helping patients recover faster, reducing the risk of complications, and providing a sense of control over their health journey.Dr. Mackney said prehabilitation has been shown to improve cancer survivorship and overall quality of life.“Physical fitness and well-being are critical for better surgical outcomes.""However, cancer and its treatments often negatively impact physical activity, nutrition, and overall fitness, increasing the risk of poor surgical outcomes,” she said.Cancer has an impact on everyone and prehabilitation is the latest weapon against the insidious disease.Studies have shown that multimodal prehabilitation before cancer surgery improves patients’ physical function, halves postoperative complications, and reduces hospital stays following surgery.However, access to formal multimodal prehabilitation programs remains limited, particularly in regional and rural NSW, where patients experience greater challenges in accessing these essential services.The Newcastle program is known as ‘C-SPRITES - Improving equity of access to prehabilitation services in regional and rural NSW: Supported Prehabilitation – Improving fitness, ensuring well-being before surgery in people living with cancer.’The expansion of this program will benefit multiple rural and regional communities across NSW, ensuring greater access to essential prehabilitation services for those outside metropolitan areas.Dr. Mackney said that this initiative builds on work previously funded through the NSW Regional Cancer Research Network, enabling her research team to implement the C-SPRITES hybrid model of care in rural and regional communities.The program will be delivered by health providers in person and via telehealth, ensuring that even those in remote locations can benefit from specialised support.Addressing Regional Healthcare DisparitiesCancer patients in regional areas often face significant barriers to care, including limited access to oncologists, delayed diagnosis, and fewer options for specialist treatment.Programs like C-SPRITES aim to bridge this gap by offering prehabilitation support to patients who might otherwise struggle to access these essential services.According to NSW Government sources, Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) provides a comprehensive range of specialist cancer care services, including outpatient consultations, radiation oncology treatments in Dubbo and Orange, and access to a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanner in Dubbo.The expansion of the Newcastle prehabilitation model aligns with broader efforts to improve regional healthcare services, including recent initiatives to enhance telehealth availability and mobile cancer care units.“Our aim is to improve access to multimodal prehabilitation services for patients with cancer who are living in rural and regional areas and assess the program’s effectiveness and acceptability for patients, hospitals, referrers, and community partners,” Dr Mackney said.

 The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) is cautioning farmers to keep mice population numbers low ahead of the breeding season.  "If you don’t do something about it now in autumn, you get into winter with high numbers of mice who start breeding from a high population base come spring," CSIRO researcher Steve Henry said".  "They're not at the proportions of 2020/21 but if farmers start sowing their crop in mid-April, they'll need to know what's going on in their paddocks in terms of mice. Coonamble is one of the areas that has noticed a slight increase in mice numbers. The bumper harvest season last year left behind plenty of feed for the mice.  "I've seen a slight increase but nothing to worry about yet," Blake Hodgson, a property manager from Coonamble said.  When CSIRO conducted a mice count on the property they counted eight mice. "If it gets worse we'll start baiting before sowing," Mr Hodgson said.  Farmers can estimate the number of mice by counting the number of active burrows per 100 square meters.  The number of active burrows per 100 square metres can then give the landholder an indication of how many active burrows there are in a hectare.  "If you've got 100 burrows per hectare, then that means there are 200 mice per hectare," Mr Henry said.  "It doesn't sound like a lot but if 100 of those are females and they're having six to ten babies every 19 to 21 days, then it isn't long before you go from 200 to 700 mice." Burrows are one of the best ways to confirm mice activity. Photo: GRDC. To tell if a burrow is active, farmers can put out a small amount of cornflower and check the next whether mice have been coming or going.  After rainfall, mice also tend to clean out burrows showing signs of a disturbed entrance.  Mr Henry said baiting is the only effective tool to get rid of mice. Zinc phosphide is the currently registered chemical for controlling mice in paddocks, however, it cannot be used around buildings, towns, and other residential areas.  Keeping the field as clean as possible during harvest and ensuring there is no other background food improves the efficiency of baiting. "Even 40 kilos of background food per hectare can reduce the bait efficiency. "Getting that background food down to the lowest levels possible is really important." Mr Henry said 150 kilos of background feed per hectare can feed 1,000 mice through 50 days of summer. "One of the best things we can do is harvest as clean as possible because that creates an environment less friendly for mice."

Authorities say rainfall records have been broken in the north west over the past 24 hours, as rainfall continues to cause flooding across the northern half of New South Wales. The Bureau of Meteorology has recorded more than 158 millimetres (mm) of rain in Walgett and 138mm in Lightning Ridge in the 24 hours to 9am on Saturday, breaking daily rainfall records for those gauges.  At 9.30 this morning they released minor flood warnings for  the Culgoa, Birrie and Bokhara Rivers. The Culgoa River at Brenda was recorded below the minor flood level at 3.09 metres and rising.  It was recorded at 4.181 metres at 4.30pm, not quite the minor flood level of 4.90 metres. Earlier today the Birrie River at Goodooga was measured at 3.21 metres and rising, above the minor flood level.  At 3:30pm it was recorded at 3.395 metres and rising. It is likely to remain above the minor flood level (3.20 m) during Saturday. The Bokhara River at Goodooga was 2.64 metres and steady this morning, below the minor flood level.  The Bokhara River at Goodooga is likely to exceed the minor flood level (2.70 m) Saturday morning. It was recorded at 2.824 metres at Goodooga at 3:15pm this afternoon and rising. A further 12.5mm of rainfall was recorded at Walgett from 9am to 6pm on Saturday 29 March.IMAGE: Hazards Near Me 6:30pm Saturday 29 March Further west, a flood watch warning has been issued for the areas around Barringun, Enngongia, Willara Crossing and Wanaaring. The Bureau of Meteorology advises moderate to heavy rainfall has been observed across the Warrego River catchment in Queensland since Monday.  This rainfall has resulted in areas of minor to major flooding along the Warrego River in Queensland.  As floodwaters arrive from Queensland minor flooding is possible along the Warrego River at Barringun from Saturday evening and at Enngonia from early next week. Predictions for the downstream locations will be provided once the upstream peaks are observed. Minor flooding may occur along the Warrego River (NSW). The Warrego River at Barringun No. 2 is currently at 2.41 metres and rising, below the minor flood level. The Warrego River at Barringun No. 2 may reach the minor flood level (2.80 m) from Saturday evening. Further rises are possible as upstream floodwaters arrive. The Warrego River at Enngonia may reach the minor flood level (2.00 m) from early next week. Further rises are possible as upstream floodwaters arrive. Thanks to heavy rainfall across the Paroo River catchment in Queensland since last Sunday night there has been areas of minor to major flooding along the Paroo River in Queensland.  Minor flooding is occurring at Willara Crossing and is likely at Wanaaring from Monday. As flood peaks arrive from Queensland, further river and creek level rises are expected along the Paroo River, with moderate flooding possible at Wanaaring from later next week. Conditions were expected to clear slightly today with possible showers from Sunday. The Paroo River at Willara Crossing is currently at 1.43 metres and rising, above the minor flood level (0.70 m).  The Paroo River at Willara Crossing may reach 3.30 metres around Tuesday, with minor flooding. Further rises are possible. No latest observations are available at Wanaaring.  Based on upstream gauge, the river level is currently expected to be below the minor flood level (2.40 m). The Paroo River at Wanaaring is likely to exceed the minor flood level (2.40 m) on Monday.  The river level may reach around 3.70 metres later next week, with moderate flooding. Further rises are possible. Based on predictions from the Bureau of Meteorology, the following areas may be impacted by dangerous floodwaters: Low-lying roads and bridgesLow-lying farming and rural areasLow-lying areas adjacent to and along the riversAny unsealed roads

NSW Health is warning the community about the dangers of nitazenes following the detection of nitazenes in fake oxycodone tablets in NSW.The fake oxycodone tablets were found to contain N-desethyl isotonitazene, and have been described as green round tablets, marked ‘OC’ on the front and ‘80’ on the reverse, and lack a film coating. The counterfeit tablets could be extremely potent and dangerous.Pharmacy-dispensed oxycodone, sold as the brand name Oxycontin, is now marked ‘ON’ instead of ‘OC’ and has a film coating.Nitazenes are extremely potent synthetic opioids which are more likely to suppress or stop breathing compared with other opioids.NSW Poisons Information Centre Medical Director Dr Darren Roberts said these drugs are extremely dangerous, as they can be hundreds of times more potent than oxycodone and can cause severe overdose or death.“Nitazenes are extremely potent and can vary widely in their strength," Dr Roberts said.“As they are illicit and unregulated, there is no way of knowing what type of nitazene is present or what dosage is being taken. The strength and contents can vary widely, even within the same batch.“It is extremely important that people recognise the signs of an opioid overdose, signs to look for include pin-point pupils, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, slowed breathing/snoring, and skin turning blue/grey.“It's strongly recommended that anyone who uses illicit drugs carry naloxone," Dr Roberts said.Nitazenes have been detected in fake tablets, such as oxycodone and benzodiazepines, and in drugs thought to be heroin or MDMA.Take home naloxone is a life-saving treatment which can temporarily reverse an opioid overdose, including with nitazenes.Nitazenes can last longer in the body than oxycodone, heroin and naloxone. Higher and repeated doses of naloxone may be required as well as hospital treatment.According to the Australian Government's Department of Health & Aged Care, if someone has overdosed on opioids they will be unconscious or awake, but unable to talk. It's unlikely they will be able to administer naloxone themselvesAnyone who uses naloxone should call Triple Zero (000) for an Ambulance immediately after use for follow-up care. IMAGE: Drug & Alcohol Research & Training AustraliaYou won't get into trouble for seeking medical care. If you feel unwell, or if your friend feels unwell, do something about it.Take home naloxone is available as an easy-to-use nasal spray or injection from some pharmacies and other health services. For more information on the take-home naloxone program visit: Your Room - Naloxone​.Support availableFree and confidential advice is available from:Call Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS) on 1800 250 015 at any time, 24/7. Start a Web Chat with an ADIS counsellor Mon-Fri, 8.30am-5pm.Call NUAA on 1800 644 413 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm) to speak to a peer or visit NUAA for a range of resources.Call the NSW Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 for information on adverse effects from drugs.

Rescue efforts of Murray Cod and Golden Perch during the devastating 2019 drought are paying off. What started off with 250 rescued Murray Cod has led to over 250,000 Murray Cod fingerlings being released along the Macquarie River, including in Narromine, Trangie, and Warren.  The fish were brought back to hatcheries to be part of the broodstock program.  The most recent release were 19 mature Murray Cod at the Warren Weir on Thursday 27 March who spent the last five years at the Narrandera Fisheries Centre.“Murray Cod are our largest freshwater sportfish, which provide significant socio-economic benefits, especially in regional NSW where recreational fishing is a key tourism and economic driver," Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said. “The DPIRD Native Fish Stocking Program plays a vital role in not only improving recreational fishing opportunities but also delivers conservation outcomes, employment, and subsequent economic benefits that have grown in response to the activity over many years." The drought choked the life from the Macquarie River. Photo: supplied. The rescue efforts are crucial to keeping native fish population numbers up when Blackwater events put a dent in their population.  A Blackwater event is when the water quality, including oxygen levels, drops to the point where the fish are unable to survive.  They occur when flooding washes organic material into waterways where bacteria consume it and raise the dissolved carbon levels.  Matt Hansen, Member of the NSW Recreation Fishing Advisory Council said the black water event killed "thousands upon thousands" of Murray Cod.  "It was heartbreaking to see go to a cease-to-flow pattern where fish are going upside down because they're starving for oxygen," Mr Hansen said.  Mr Hansen said that although the rescue efforts have been largely successful, the problem will keep reoccurring as long as native fish don't have free passage throughout the Macquarie River.  "One of the main problems we have in the Murray Darling Basin is barriers to fish passage, such as culverts, weirs, and bridges that block the system. "It's like choking the arteries of the body."  The barriers are preventing fish from migrating to other areas and repopulating them.  "Golden Perch can travel 2,000 kilometres on a flood event and repopulate areas where we've lost them but they can't do that if there's eight or ten barriers in the way."  "There are thousands of barriers to fish passage in the Murray Darling Basin and we need to address those barriers so that fish can move around like on a highway." Ultimately, nothing is as successful as natural breeding due to sustaining genetics, less labour intensity, and it's more cost-effective.  "Having a healthy river system where fish do it on their own is what we want," Mr Hansen said.  "Opening the Murray Darling Basin is critical so that when we lose fish in one area, the stronghold can repopulate the areas the fish that we've lost." 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the 2025 Federal Election for 3 May but with five weeks to go, there are still only four candidates nominated for the Parkes electorate. In the last federal election, voters across the vast Parkes electorate had nine candidates to choose from.This election will see voters in the shires of Parkes, Forbes and Bland (West Wyalong) joining the state's largest electorate - the Parkes Electoral Division.The change came in mid-2024 after boundaries were adjusted to accommodate the abolition of the Division of North Sydney and the reduction of the number of members in the House of Representatives from 27 to 46.The Parkes electorate is now roughly half the state, with the addition of an extra 13,342 square kilometres bringing the area to 406,755 square kilometres.The estimated number of enrolled voters is now 128,178 people, as the new shires bring along just over 19,000 eligible people.Sal Edwards - LibertarianFarmer Sal Edwards from Coolah is running as a Libertarian candidate for Parkes. This is the first time Ms Edwards has stood for the federal election. She has worked in community development for the past 15 years, including as a youth camp coordinator in Coolah, as a Camp Draft Association member, treasurer of the Coolah Youth and Community Centre. “If elected, I will stand to protect and support family, small business, and the rural way of life. For our kids and for their kids,” Ms Edwards said.“I know that I don’t have all the answers myself but will find the people who between them do.“After listening to the budget being presented and the coalition’s response this week, I have not been more committed and more proud to stand for a minor party."Sal Edwards Photo: Sal Edwards Libertarian Candidate for ParkesMs Edwards was named ‘Barwon Woman of the Year’ this year for her tireless efforts and advocacy for rural NSW.Maurice Davey - Family FirstFourth Generation farmer and grazier Maurice Davey from Alectown is running for Family First Party. As a father of four children and grandfather to nine, Mr Davey found purpose in running for the Family First Party. According to his campaign website, Mr Davey adheres strongly to the Judeo-Christian ethic. “His focus is very strongly on the preservation and active nurture of the family unit, recognising it as the basic building block of a happy and prosperous society”Maurice Davey. Photo: Family First In 2019, he ran for the state elections as part of the Christian Democratic Party for the Orange electorate. He came in fifth with 1,627 votes. Trish Frail - The Greens Ms Frail announced her candidacy for Parkes in early March.The Brewarrina councillor and Ngemba woman puts a strong focus on environmental issues including successfully fighting against the establishment of a nuclear waste facility in the Brewarrina shire. Trish Frail. Creative CommonsAttribution-Share Alike 2.5 Australia Licence. Photo: Australia Greens.  "I know the impact of climate change firsthand," Ms Frail said.  "My previous partner had respiratory issues arising from droughts and so in 2016, we had to move to Western Australia for a couple of years. But it was too far from home, so I decided to move back to Bre."  She has advocated to put Biami Ngunnhu Fish Traps on the UNESCO World Heritage List.  Ms Frail also serves on several boards including the Brewarrina Hospital Board, and NSW government housing committee, is the co-founder of the Aboriginal Women's Legal Centre, and co-convenor of the Australia Free Nuclear Alliance.  "As a writer, small business owner, elected representative, and hard-working member of community committees and boards, I’m well placed to represent the Parkes electorate in Parliament," Ms Frail said. Jamie Chaffey - the Nationals  Jamie Chaffey will step in the footsteps of long-serving Parkes MP Mark Coulton who is retiring.  The Nationals announced his preselection in August 2024.  Mr Chaffey has been living in Gunnedah since 1991 and became the mayor of the town in 2016.He currently lives on cattle grazing property. Mr Chaffey said his priorities include advancing the completion of the Inland Rail Project, empowering population growth and opportunities for regional people, and increasing water availability in the Northern Basin.  "I am passionate about regional Australia and will work hard to continue the legacy of Mark Coulton MP, advocating tirelessly to ensure our region gets its fair share," Mr Chaffey said. Mark Coulton endorses Nationals candidate Jamie Chaffey. Photo: Mark Coulton MP  Mr Coulton said he stands behind Mr Chaffey.  "I'm excited the Party has chosen someone of such high calibre," Mr Coulton said.  "Jamie has been a hardworking community leader, he understands the issues facing our communities and knows that regional Australia is the back of our economy."Previous election In the last federal election in 2022, there were nine candidates for Parkes with Mark Coulton and Jack Ayoub (Labor) emerging as the favourites. Around 89 per cent of 109,000 eligible voters in the Parkes electorate turned out to cast their votes.  Ultimately, Mr Coulton won the election with 49 percent of votes in the first preference count.  In 2022, other parties including the Indigenous-Aboriginal Party of Australia, The Greens, Liberal Democrats, Pauline Hanson's One National, United Australia Party, and Informed Medical Options Party also had candidates running, along with Stuart Howe as an Independent candidate. Sunday 30, March: This story has been updated to include Sal Edwards and Maurice Davey as candidates for Parkes. 

Heavy rainfall from inland Queensland is making its way down south.  Six-hour rainfall totals are expected between 30 to 50 millimetres (mm) with isolated falls of up to 80 mm.  Twenty-four rainfalls are expected between 50 to 100 mm with isolated totals of 130 mm.  At 12pm several towns already recorded rainfall since 9am.  Bourke 19.8 mmCobar 8.6 mmCoonamble 2.8 mm Walgett 12.2 mm The Bureau of Meteorology announced a severe weather warning for heavy rainfall for parts of the Western Plains in the morning of Friday 28 March.  These districts include Brewarrina, Bourke, Cobar, Coonamble, Lightning Ridge, Nyngan, and Walgett. Severe Weather Warning Area. Photo: Bureau of Meteorology. The heavy rainfall may lead to flash flooding in parts of the Upper Western and extend to the northern reaches of the Central West Slopes and Plains.  The NSW State Emergency Services (SES) advised to monitor conditions for flash flooding in Bourke, Brewarrina, Cobar, Lightning Ridge, and Walgett.  BOM warned sheep graziers of the risk of losing lamb and sheep exposed to the weather conditions.  The SES warned to avoid unnecessary travel, stay indoors, park your car away from trees, powerlines, and drains, secure outdoor furniture, and make sure your emergency kit is on hand in case of a power outage.  The rain is expected to continue throughout the night from Friday to Saturday for most of the Western Plains and slow down or completely stop throughout the day on Saturday.

With their latest survey, the Far North West Joint Organisation of Councils (FNWJO) wants to draw attention to the crucial role western air services in Bourke, Cobar, Lightning Ridge, and Walgett play in keeping people in the bush connected. After six years of funding from the NSW government, no further funding has been secured past late November 2025.  The last round of funding included $2 million in September last year.  Airlink services Bourke, Lightning Ridge, and Walgett to Dubbo while Air Pelican services Cobar to Sydney.  In February, Air Pelican expanded their services in Cobar.  "We're doing an assessment now to see how it's going and it looks like the route is well patronised," Ross Earl, FNWJO Executive Officer said.  The survey closed on Monday 24 March.  The FNWJO will present the NSW Government's Department of Regional NSW with the results of the survey to demonstrate the importance of future investment in regional services.  "We'd like to make sure that people are aware of the importance of connectivity in regional areas and the huge distances," Mr Earl said. Ross Earl became the head of the FNSWJO in 2021.Mr Earl said with the federal government allocating $130 million in secured loans for Rex Airlines, the government sees the need for reliable air transport to remote areas.  "We need good air services as well as good services on the ground, including lightning and terminals."  Questions included the purpose of travel, frequency of use, quality of service, as well as why respondents may not yet have used western air services.  "We’re looking at the service to make sure that they meet the needs of all people who use them currently and people who haven't used them because there may be a good reason for that," Mr Earl said.  The final report on the survey is expected to be presented at the end of April.